Gunfire and clouds of tear gas engulfed Namutumba Town on Monday morning as security forces clashed with irate supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who were protesting against the party’s Electoral Commission for refusing to declare Simon Menya as the elected district chairperson.
The demonstrators, armed with placards and chanting slogans in support of Menya, blocked major roads into Namutumba Town, paralyzing transport and causing widespread disruption. Attempts by police, led by Namutumba District Police Commander Bashir Siriba, to negotiate with the protesters failed, prompting the deployment of anti-riot personnel.
“Blocking roads and damaging property is not a lawful way to express grievances,” said DPC Siriba. “We had to act to restore order and protect public safety.”
The chaos erupted after the NRM Electoral Commission, chaired by Dr. Tanga Odoi, nullified the election results in which Simon Menya had reportedly secured 489 votes against 108 for his opponent, Namutumba Woman MP Mariam Naigaga. The commission cited irregularities and chaos during the vote, calling for a re-election at a later date.
But Menya’s supporters have rejected the commission’s decision, accusing Dr. Odoi and MP Naigaga of interfering with the democratic process.
“We know Naigaga is behind this, but it’s not her or Tanga Odoi who should decide for us,” one protester shouted amid the melee. “Menya won fairly, and we won’t accept another election.”
Tensions escalated further when Deputy Resident District Commissioner Paul Waiswa Bwenhibwamwiko arrived to address the crowd. Security quickly surrounded him after he was accused of stoking tensions rather than calming them. He later assured the public that he would follow up on the matter and assist those injured during the fracas.
The demonstration was eventually broken up by tear gas and warning shots, forcing protesters to scatter. No fatalities were reported, but several people sustained minor injuries.
The standoff highlights growing internal tensions within the NRM ahead of the 2026 general elections, particularly in areas where long-time party loyalists are clashing with emerging candidates over control of local structures.
Despite the heavy security presence and temporary calm, Menya’s supporters have vowed to return to the streets if the Electoral Commission does not reverse its decision.
As of Monday evening, the NRM secretariat had not issued an official statement regarding the incident or the status of the disputed election.
